About Emergency Exit Doors
As with fire exit doors, there are also regulations regarding emergency exit doors in commercial buildings and in multiple occupancy residential buildings, like an HMO. For example, not every exit can be called an emergency exit door, such as revolving doors, sliding doors, or exits that lead into a courtyard or enclosed space.
What is the difference between an emergency exit door and a fire exit door?
The purpose of an emergency exit door is the same as a fire exit door in that it allows people to escape a building in the event of an emergency. But where a fire exit door must open outwards, some emergency exit doors can open inwards. This can happen when the building is not for public use, like an HMO, or where an exit is needed for 60 people or less.
Whilst most people will leave through the nearest exit, to minimise the distance between the point of danger and the exit further emergency exit doors must be installed.
Another point of difference is that an emergency exit door can be left open, unlike fire doors. It mustn’t be locked by a key or padlock when the building is occupied, only when it is empty, i.e. in the evening when an office or shop is closed. Whoever opens up in the morning must unlock all emergency exit doors, or it is a breach of safety regulations. In addition, it is important to ensure emergency exit doors are never blocked.
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What else do I need with an emergency exit door?
As with fire exits, all routes to emergency exit doors must be clearly marked with signage and be free of blockages. This includes the area immediately outside the exit. For example, if it leads into a car park, make sure no vehicles park in front of the exit by using a barrier or a ‘no parking’ sign.
To maintain security while emergency exit doors are unlocked, there are a variety of solutions, including:
- Panic Bars. These incorporate a locking mechanism which is released when the bar is pushed down. They should be fitted to the inside of the door.
- Emergency push pads. Similar to panic bars, however, they shouldn’t be used in public buildings.
- Magnetic locks. They work by holding the door closed using an electromagnetic plate. They are operated through a keypad entry system on the outside and a quick-release button on the inside.
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Do you need an emergency exit door installed on your premises? Have you tested your emergency exit doors recently? Call J&D Carpentry Services today to discuss your emergency exit doors in more detail on 01603 552627 or email us at [email protected].